DIY vs Pro: When to Call Reno Plumbing for Sewer Backup

fixing issue

Dealing with a sewer backup can be one of the most stressful and unhygienic home emergencies. In Reno, where older homes and tree-lined neighborhoods are common, the risk is even higher.

Deciding between DIY troubleshooting and finding a professional drain cleaner near you can make a major difference—not only for your sanity, but for your safety and financial bottom line.

This guide will help you pinpoint what you can safely handle on your own, when it's time to get Reno Plumbing Doctor on speed dial, and exactly what to expect when they arrive. Let’s dive in.

What Is a Sewer Backup and Why It’s a Big Deal

A sewer backup occurs when wastewater flows in reverse, emerging from your home’s drains. Instead of moving away, it comes back toward you—sometimes into multiple fixtures at once. This isn’t just gross; it’s a serious hazard.

Causes: Tree Roots, Pipe Collapse, Grease Blockages

  • Tree roots: Roots seek moisture and infiltrate small pipe cracks, growing to constrict and block the line.
  • Pipe collapse: Old, corroded, or shifting pipes may buckle and trap waste.
  • Grease blockages: In kitchen drains, fat, oil, and grease solidify into blockages that prevent flow.

Warning Signs: Gurgling Toilets, Drain Smells, Basement Flooding

  • Gurgling toilets or sinks when another fixture is flushed or drained.
  • Persistent sewer-like smells in basement floors, laundry rooms, or near drains.
  • Water backing up into low points such as basement floor drains, tub/shower drains, sinks.

Dangers: Sewage Exposure, Mold, Water Damage

  • Health hazards: Untreated sewage can hold E. coli, Salmonella, and hepatitis A.
  • Mold growth: Water infiltration promotes mold within 24–48 hours.
  • Structural damage: Wooden framing, drywall, flooring—everything can be affected.
  • Financial impact: Cleanup, restoration, and medical bills add up fast.

What You Might Be Able to DIY (Safely)

Before you reach for the phone, here are some low-risk steps you can try. These won’t fix major backups—but might relieve minor, localized clogs.

Plunging a Minor Single‑Drain Clog

If only one sink or toilet is slow to drain:

  • Use a clean, flexible plunger suited for that fixture.
  • Ensure a water seal before plunging vigorously (10–20 times).
  • Flush or run water to see if flow resumes.
  • Repeat if necessary—but stop if it doesn’t clear after 2–3 attempts.

Natural Enzyme Treatments (Baking Soda + Vinegar)

  • For mild clogs or odors in sinks:
  • Pour ½ cup baking soda down the drain.
  • Add ½ cup white vinegar and cover the drain.
  • Wait 15–30 minutes for the fizzing action.
  • Rinse with hot water.

Pros:

  • Non-toxic and pipe-safe.
  • Helps reduce residue buildup.

Cons:

  • Won’t fix blockages in main lines.
  • Not a reliable emergency solution.

Temporary Odor Control with Bleach Traps or Drain Caps

  • Bleach traps: Fill a capped trap with diluted bleach for 30 minutes, then flush thoroughly. This kills some odor-causing bacteria.
  • Drain caps: Physically cover unused drains to block odors from entering the space.

These are temporary fixes that don’t address the root problem—but can offer short-term relief.

When to Call Reno Plumbing Immediately

Some scenarios aren’t safe or feasible for DIY. If any of the following occur, call for professional emergency help right away:

Raw Sewage Coming Up from Multiple Drains

  • Raw sewage in toilets, tubs, and floor drains at the same time is a red flag for main‑line backup.
  • DIY tools won’t resolve this—it’s a job for a licensed plumber.

Persistent Smell of Sewer Gas Indoors

  • Lingering odor suggests ongoing backup or venting issues.
  • This can lead to illness or toxic-air hazards like methane and hydrogen sulfide.

Overflow in Low Points (Bathtub, Floor Drains, Basement)

  • Standing wastewater in low fixtures indicates a serious clog or backup.
  • This poses contamination and structural damage risks.

Recurring Blockages After Multiple Fixes

If you’ve plunged and used enzymes, but the issue returns, there’s likely a deeper issue such as collapsed pipe, roots, or grease build-up.

Health Hazards of Ignoring a Sewer Backup

Let’s be clear: a backed‑up sewer line isn’t just inconvenient—it can make you sick and cost you a fortune.

Bacteria and Viral Exposure Risks

  • Sewage can contain E. coli, Campylobacter, Salmonella, and norovirus.
  • Skin exposure, inhalation, or cross-contamination from household items can lead to gastrointestinal distress.

Air Quality Impact of Methane and Hydrogen Sulfide

  • Sewer gas contains methane (flammable, displacing oxygen) and hydrogen sulfide (toxic, even at low concentrations).
  • Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, respiratory issues.

Risks for Children, Elderly, and Immunocompromised

These groups are most vulnerable to infections and breathing issues.

  • Children: Immune systems still developing.
  • Elderly: Weaker immunity, slower recovery.
  • Immunocompromised: Severe illness or long recovery times possible.

How Reno Plumbing Professionals Diagnose the Problem

Reno Plumbing Doctor uses high-tech methods to quickly identify and fix the source of sewer backups.

Video Camera Inspection: What It Reveals

  • A snake-like camera is inserted into your drain line.
  • Enables real-time viewing of blockages, cracks, and root intrusions.
  • Minimally invasive and highly precise.

Locating Pipe Breaks, Tree Roots, and Grease Buildup

With the live footage, professionals can:

  • Spot tree roots expanding inside the pipe.
  • Detect collapsed or failing segments.
  • Identify grease belts lining the pipe walls.

Real‑time Footage to Verify Scope and Quote

  • The plumber shows you exactly what’s wrong via video.
  • Quotes for repair or cleaning are based on direct evidence.
  • No guessing, no unnecessary costs.

Trenchless vs Traditional Sewer Repair Options

Once the problem is diagnosed, Reno Plumbing Doctor will recommend the best fix:

Pipe Relining and Pipe Bursting Explained

Pipe relining:

  • A resin-coated liner is inserted into the existing pipe.
  • It hardens to form a jointless “pipe within a pipe.”
  • No digging needed; preserves landscaping.

Pipe bursting:

  • A new pipe is pulled through the old one with minimal trenching.
  • Full replacement without wide excavation.

When Excavation Is Unavoidable

  • Old service lines (lead, clay) or severely collapsed pipes may need trenching.
  • Excavation is faster and essential in these extreme cases.
  • Landscaped areas are carefully restored afterward.

What to Expect During an Emergency Sewer Call

Here’s how Reno Plumbing Doctor responds to an emergency call:

Timeline From Call to Fix

  • Initial call: 24/7 emergency dispatch takes your call.
  • Arrival: Licensed plumber arrives within the hour, depending on schedule and urgency.
  • Assessment: Inspection and diagnostics begin immediately.
  • Quote & approval: You receive a clear explanation with price estimates.
  • Repair & cleanup: Work completed soon after approval—cleanup starts immediately.
  • Aftercare: Sanitization services included; site left clean.

Total time depends on severity, but most jobs conclude in a few hours to a full day.

Safety Protocols and Home Prep Tips

  • Plumber wears full PPE (gloves, masks, boots).
  • Affected areas are isolated to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Technician sets up caution tape or cones, especially on stairs or slippery zones.
  • Home prep tip: Remove clutter near work zones and secure pets.

Aftercare: Sanitization, Restoration, Warranties

  • Technician sanitizes surfaces and floors using EPA‑approved cleaners.
  • Any disturbed landscaping or excavation trench is backfilled and leveled.
  • You’ll receive warranties on parts, labor, and workmanship.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Delay—Your Home and Health Depend On It

No homeowner wants to deal with a sewer backup, but it’s not a situation to ignore or delay. Here’s a quick recap:

  • DIY is fine for minor single‑drain clogs, baking soda + vinegar flushes, or temporary odor control.
  • Call professionals immediately if you see sewage in multiple fixtures, a persistent sewer smell, or repeated backups.
  • Health hazards—from bacteria to toxic gases—make timely intervention a must.
  • Reno Plumbing Doctor offers camera inspection, trenchless repair, and full cleanup under tight timelines.
  • Hiring a pro ensures safe, permanent solutions—and peace of mind.

Contact Reno Plumbing Doctor for 24/7 Sewer Backup Help

When sewer backups strike, you want fast, reliable help—and that’s exactly what Reno Plumbing Doctor delivers. Our fully licensed and equipped team is available 24/7 for emergency sewer situations. From rapid diagnosis to trenchless repairs and thorough cleanup, we take care of it all swiftly and professionally. So, why wait? Contact Reno Plumbing Doctor today!